Doctoral Student Writing for Publication: Year in Program Guideposts
Developing a solid initial “productivity portfolio” is an essential component of doctoral training and transition to early research career post-graduation. Productivity conventionally takes the form of publications (particularly peer reviewed) and conference presentations. Other activities such as involvement in grant development, translational activities (e.g., writing for practice, policy, or lay audiences; presentations to or consultations with these or related groups), and dissemination activities (e.g., use of social or print media to increase access to your work) are additional venues over a career.
Here we focus on professional presentations and writing for publication--both of which are competitive in nature and take time to develop. Thus, getting an early start while in the program is an advantage. The following provide some guideposts for students and their advisors/mentors to have in mind. Input on these or other types of guideposts is welcome.
1st year = discussion with advisors and first year faculty regarding research interests; using first year assignments to clarify/advance key dimensions of research focus; seek involvement with research activities that offer opportunity for publication and conference presentations; explore range of ways to translate work for dissemination
2nd year = (co)author on a minimum of one submitted presentation abstract and one manuscript submitted for publication;
3rd year = (co)author on a minimum of one new conference abstract submitted and at least one additional manuscript submitted based on Qualifying Paper (ideally more, with increasing responsibilities and advanced author order);
4th year = continued minimum of 1-2 new abstracts and 1-2 new manuscripts submitted, with increasing responsibilities and advanced author order;
5th year= continued minimum of 1-2 new abstracts and 1-2 new manuscripts submitted, with increasing responsibilities and advanced author order